How do you delegate during uncertainty?

While delegation typically flows top-down, consider implementing reverse delegation occasionally. Encourage team members to propose tasks or projects they believe they can handle effectively.

An important aspect here is to create situations where delegates can "fail safely." This allows leaders to avoid micromanaging out of fear or distrust, and allows for an increased likelihood of success which will improve employee confidence. "Failing safely" means you don't hand off a critical task or function right away, and maybe not a client facing one either. You offer an opportunity to learn from error or success, without a high risk of detrimental outcomes.

When selecting individuals for delegation, explore the potential of cross-functional collaboration. Look for team members whose skills and experiences extend beyond their current roles.

I agree that it is important to assess who has the skills and confidence to do the task but it is also an opportunity to challenge a team member that is still developing the confidence but is willing to think outside the box. Proactive attitude and adaptability would be one of the first soft skills I would look for when determining the team member to delegate the task.

Instead of dictating objectives, involve the delegatee in goal setting. Collaboratively define the scope and expectations to ensure alignment with their strengths and interests.

Related to setting expectations, is clearly defining the level of permission or autonomy someone does or does not have. Where can they or can they not make decisions? In order to move forward do they or do they not need permission? Do they need to report back once the task/function is complete, or no? Etc.

One idea is to adapt the feedback frequency to the development level of the team member, using situational leadership. That means that a team member who is learning and developing confidence would need more frequent feedback than one that already has developed the skills

Empowering team members to deliver results is more than just giving them space and encouragement. It also means providing practical support such as time, resources, and advocacy. Teams often rely on senior leaders to advocate for what they need to be successful, which may include money, technology, personnel, or training. The best leaders listen to their people's needs and provide needed resources to equip them to be successful.

We shall always keep in mind two important details: 1) delegating is not a matter of pushing your problem over someone else and forget it. 2) the only thing a manager can’t delegate is his/her responsibility.